MPAT: A Coalition Warm Starter
Abstract
In the modern era, virtually every military operation the U.S. and its allies undertake involves a coalition. Coalitions, as opposed to alliances, are by nature ad hoc and informal. The challenge raced by Geographic Combatant Commanders is to improve the stand-up time and quality of coalition headquarters, while minimizing friction, especially in the early stages of an operation. Typically, security assistance programs and theater security cooperation are touted as means by which these goals are accomplished. This paper first examines security assistance, demonstrating that while useful, these programs do not adequately meet the combatant commander's needs. An examination of coalition-building requirements follows as an introduction to the Multinational Augmentation Planning Team (MPAT) pioneered by U.S. Pacific Command. Operation United Assistance serves as a supporting case study, demonstrating the MPAT's practical utility. The operational rectors of space, time and force are reviewed as applicable to the MPAT, in order to determine the viability of the concept outside of the Asia-Pacific. Lastly, the paper draws conclusions as to the efficacy of the MPAT concept outside Asia, with a particular recommendation for the emerging U.S. Africa Command.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 06, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA476624
Entities
People
- Paul L. Muller
Organizations
- Naval War College